Software for students and education (2024)

Information about (free) software for students currently enrolled at Utrecht University.

Contents of this page

  • Software for education: SolisWorkspace
  • SURFspot
  • Tooladvisor
  • Other Software
    • Adobe Creative Cloud (including Adobe Acrobat DC)
    • ArcGIS (Geographical Information System Software)
    • Mathematica
    • MATLAB
    • Microsoft 365
    • Microsoft Windows upgrade
    • Microsoft Azure DevTools for Teaching (formerly called Dreamspark/Imagine)
    • NVivo
    • Qualtrics
    • Reference Management (Zotero, Mendeley, RefWorks and Endnote)
    • SPSS
    • Think-cell
    • Transcription (conversion of speech to text)
    • Van Dale Dictionaries

Software for education: SolisWorkspace

By using SolisWorkspace, you can access software that you need for your studies, such as SPSS, Mathematica, MatLab, NVivo or Stella. You can use the software using anytime, any place, using devices with Windows, Apple or any other operating system. For more information, visit the page SolisWorkspace.

SURFspot

You can also buy software and hardware with a discount on SURFspot.nl. (Click on "English" at the upper right corner on the website.) Log on using your Solis-id and password.

Tool advisor

UU provides a tooladvisor, where you can find several tools that will help you select the right IT solution for you, including software.

Other Software

Utrecht University also offers some applications and suites which you may install locally (and free of charge) on your own laptop or computer. See below for specific information.

PLEASE NOTE: As researcher/student/employee, you are responsible for choosing the right means to process your data; so be extra alert if your research data contains personal data. It is important to handle these data with diligence, also (not only) in connection with the privacy law (General Data Protection Regulation).

Adobe Creative Cloud (including Adobe Acrobat DC)

Adobe Creative Cloud is available for all students of Utrecht University on the public student computers on campus. Applications covered by this version include Photoshop, Indesign and Illustrator.

In order to use the applications, it is necessary to create a Adobe ID. You'll have to accept the privacy terms of Adobe. These terms are not a part of the contract between Utrecht University and Adobe (via SURF); sharing information with Adobe is your own responsibility.

How to create an Adobe ID is described in this manual. Once you have completed the registration, you can use these Adobe applications. You only need to create an Adobe ID once.

If you want to use Adobe Creative Cloud on your privately owned computer, you can buy a license on SURFspot.nl, with a considerable discount.

ArcGIS (Geographical Information System Software)

With ArcGIS Pro, you can explore, visualize, and analyze data; create 2D maps and 3D scenes; and share your work to your ArcGIS Online.

ArcGIS Pro is available in SolisWorkspace. When starting ArcGIS Pro choose 'enterprise login', type uni-utrecht (so now it reads: uni-utrecht.maps.arcgis.com), then type your Solis-id and password.

Local installation on your Windows computer/laptop

The ArcGIS license of Utrecht University allows students, faculty and staff to install ArcGIS Pro software on their personally-owned windows computer. Summary of Steps:

  1. Download the installers from sharepoint/msteams.
  2. Select the latest ArcGIS Pro folder and download ArcGISPro<version>.exe and ArcGIS_Data_Interop<version>.exe.
  3. Start the installation by double clicking ArcGISPro<version>.exe - confirm licenses and folder destinations etcetera - click Finish. (when there is a messageon missing .NET, close the ArcGIS Pro install and first install windowsdesktop-runtime<version>.exe).
  4. Execute the second installation by double clicking ArcGIS_Data_Interop<version>.exe.
  5. Start ArcGIS Pro, choose 'enterprise login', type uni-utrecht (so now it reads: uni-utrecht.maps.arcgis.com), then type your Solis-id and password.

ArcGIS Pro regularly and automatically checks if updates are available.

ArcGIS Online

ArcGIS Online is a cloud-based mapping and analysis solution. Use it to make maps, analyze data, share and collaborate. Get access to workflow-specific apps, maps and data from around the globe, and tools for being mobile in the field. Log in with your Solis-id and password on ArcGIS Online.

Mathematica

Mathematica is a software application focused on mathematics. It uses symbolic language (mathematical formulas).

Use the software via SolisWorkspace (free of charge)

SolisWorkspace is the easiest way to use the software for free.

Local installation on your PC

You may install Mathematica on your own PC. There are versions available for Windows, Linux and Mac OS.

  1. First, create a Wolfram ID, using your @students.uu.nl or @ucr.nl email address. Other email accounts do not work.
  2. Then you can request an activation code on the portal of Wolfram. You will receive the code and download links directly on the screen via email.

Every year you will receive an email to confirm you are still a student; this prolongs your license for another year.

Need help with the installation? Visit the support page of the supplier.

MATLAB

MATLAB (developed by MathWorks) is a multi-paradigm numerical computing environment and fourth-generation programming language. MATLAB allows matrix manipulations, plotting of functions and data, implementation of algorithms, creation of user interfaces.

Use the software via SolisWorkspace (free of charge)

SolisWorkspace is the easiest way to use the software for free.

Local installation on your PC

The MATLAB license of Utrecht University allows students (and faculty and staff) to install MathWorks software on their personally-owned computers.

Summary of Steps:

  1. Log in to the MathWorks Portal, using your @students.uu.nl email address.
  2. Download the installer for your selected version of MATLAB and run it.
    1. Windows users: double click on the Installer named MATLAB_<version number>_win64.exe in your download folder.
    2. Mac users: double click on the Installer named MATLAB_<version number>_maci64.zip - which will extract the files in the folder named MATLAB_<version number>_maci64. Start the Installer by double clicking InstallForMacOSX.
  3. In the installer, select Sign in with a MathWorks Account and follow the instructions.
  4. When prompted, select the Academic – Total Headcount license labeled MATLAB (Individual).
  5. In the Product Selection screen, select the products you want to download and then click Begin Install.

When the end date of the license is near, you'll see a pop-up. Start the application as Administrator (Start - click with the alternative (usually right) mouse button - More - Run as Administrator) - Click Help – Licensing – Activate Software.

MATLAB and Simulink Training

All students (and faculty and staff) also have free access to MATLAB and Simulink Training Online. Access through matlabacademy.mathworks.com.

MATLAB Online and Simulink Online

All students (and faculty and staff) also have free access to MATLAB Online and Simulink Online. With MATLAB Online and Simulink Online you can access MATLAB and Simulink in your webbrowser without installation. You can also share files with others or across different applications. Access MATLAB Online and Simulink Online throught matlab.mathworks.com.

MATLAB Mobile

You can also find free MATLAB Mobile apps in the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Microsoft 365

Microsoft 365 is a collaboration platform developed by Microsoft. Every UU employee and -student has a license and can use it for free. This includes Word, Excel, Access, Teams and PowerPoint, with a licence that allows you to install these applications on 5 different devices.

Microsoft 365 can be accessed via microsoft365.com. You can log on with your email address that ends with @uu.nl or @students.uu.nl and your Solis password, after which you’ll see the 365 homepage. From this page you have access to all the online applications.

Please note: If you're asked to enter a product key, click on 'sign in to an existing subscription'.

Microsoft Windows upgrade

Students can download a Windows upgrade for free. This upgrade contains more options that the standard Windows version.

Do you already own a laptop?

  • Yes, it’s a laptop with Windows – you can order the free upgrade on SURFspot.nl.
  • Yes, it’s an Apple MacBook with Windows - you can order the free upgrade on SURFspot.nl.
  • Yes, it’s an Apple MacBook without Windows - first, order the cheapest Windows license, on Microsoft.com or elsewhere. Next, you can order the free upgrade on SURFspot.nl.

You don’t own a laptop, and plan to buy one?

  • You plan to buy a laptop with Windows – in most cases, Windows is installed on the laptop, with an ‘OEM license’. Order the cheapest Windows license. Next, you can order the free upgrade on SURFspot.nl.
  • You plan to buy an Apple MacBook – in most cases, it is possible to obtain an ‘OEM license’ with your laptop. Order the cheapest Windows license. Next, you can order the free upgrade on SURFspot.nl.

Microsoft Azure DevTools for Teaching (formerly called Dreamspark/Imagine)

The Microsoft Azure DevTools for Teaching (formerly called Dreamspark/Imagine) offers free Microsoft software with a valid Windows licence. Log in with your Solis-id and password.

Please note: this software can only be used by students and teachers of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) to learn/teach design, development and testing of software applications, and researchers STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) to perform non-commercial research.

Access is limited to employees and students of the Faculty of Science.

NVivo (QSR)

NVivo (QSR)is a software package that can be used for the qualitative analysis of primarily textual information.

Use the software via SolisWorkspace (free of charge)

SolisWorkspace is the easiest way to use the software for free.

Local install on your own PC

  • Go to https://portal.mynvivo.com e and create an account with your UU email address. You'll have to accept the privacy terms of NVivo, which are accepted by Utrecht University with reservation.
  • After logging on to the website, you can download and install NVivo.
  • The first time you start the application, you will be asked to activate NVivo. Click “provide enterprise key to activate” and use the license code that you'll find on this website (log in using your Solis-id and password)

Please note:

  • It is NOT necessary to share your personal financial/payment information in order to use NVivo.
  • After logging on to the website, you will see advertisements for other QSR products, such as NVivo Transcription. The use of those products is not allowed under the terms of the Utrecht University license. For Transcription (conversion of speech to text), there are other services available, see transcription.

Qualtrics

Qualtrics is a powerful online survey tool that enables UU students and staff to create complex surveys that meet a variety of research needs. You can use this tool to design, distribute and analyze surveys. Log in with your Solis-id, password and two-factor-authentication at https://survey.uu.nl.

More information

Visit the Qualtrics page.

Reference Management (Zotero, Mendeley, RefWorks and Endnote)

Reference Management tools are used to systematically collect, organise and use references to sources. How to do this in the most efficient way depends on the type of sources you use most frequently and also on your personal workflow and preferences. Read more about Reference Management in the LibGuide by Utrecht University Library. Whatever tool you choose, it is always relatively easy to switch and import your references in another tool.

Name and Wikipedia-linkProducerLicenceAvailable on
ZoteroCorporation for Digital Scholarship (an independent nonprofit organization)Open Source and free of charge
  • SolisWorkspace
  • Private device (please install this yourself, see Wikipedia-link)
MendeleyElsevierFree of charge
  • SolisWorkspace
  • Private device (please install this yourself, see Wikipedia-link)
RefWorksEx Libris Group / ProQuestCommercial. There is a university wide campus license, so you can use this without extra chargeWeb-based, no installation necessary.

Plugin for Microsoft Word is available on

  • SolisWorkspace
  • Private device (please install this yourself, see Wikipedia-link)
EndNoteClarivate Analytics (previously Thomson Reuters)Commercial. There is a university wide campus license, so you can use this without extra charge
  • SolisWorkspace
  • Private device (please install this yourself, see below)

To install Endnote on a private device (pc/laptop):

MacOS:

  • Go to this website, log in using your Solis-id and password.
  • Download the installation file and double click to install Endnote.

Windows:

  • Go to this website, log in using your Solis-id and password.
  • Download the msi-file and License.dat and save them in the same folder/directory.
  • Double click the msi-file to install Endnote.
  • When the installation is completed: start Endnote and click ‘I accept the licence agreement’. Endnote will ask you to create an account; this is not necessary.
  • You can exit Endnote now, and delete the two files you downloaded.

SPSS

SPSS is a statistical support package used in teaching and research.

Use the software via SolisWorkspace (free of charge)

SolisWorkspace is the easiest way to use the software for free.

Local installation on your own PC

If you need SPSS for use on a private device, you can buy it at a large discount on Surfspot.nl.

Think-cell

Think-cell facilitates the creation of charts on Microsoft PowerPoint presentation slides from Microsoft Excel data sheets, e.g., bar charts, waterfall charts, Marimekko charts and Gantt charts. Some features overlap with those provided by built-in charts in Office 2016.

Employees and students of Utrecht University can use this software for free. Go to this website, log in using your Solis-id and password and download the license code.

Transcription (conversion of speech to text)

Transcription is the conversion of speech into text. This conversion can be carried out manually, using a computer to type up the contents of a sound recording (audio file), assisted by transcription software that facilitates manual transcription, or automatically, by using automatic transcription software. With this latter type of software, you need to check the text carefully and rework it if necessary.

For whom?

A.o. researchers who conduct interviews for their research, students who cooperate in that research, secretaries/management assistants (e.g. for the elaboration of meeting minutes) and people who write long texts and cannot type (very well). Furthermore, it is useful to provide subtitles and/or a transcript for all videos or sound files that you offer to a group (e.g. on a website). This is important for anyone who cannot hear an audio file properly due to circumstances and/or a disability. In this way you contribute to digital accessibility, an important goal of Utrecht University.

Microsoft Word - Dictate

For automatic transcription the Dictate function in Word may suffice; in Word click on Home (Start) - Dictate (Dicteren) - Click on the gear wheel for Settings (Instellingen) - choose the language - click on the microphone and start dictating. What you say is immediately converted into text. There are all kinds of tricks you can use. You can end a sentence by saying 'period' or continue on a new line by saying 'new line'. You can find more information about this by clicking on the question mark next to the microphone.

Microsoft Word - Transcription of audio files

Word also has an option to perform automatic transcription of an audio file. To do this, use Word Online by logging in through Office.com. Click on the arrow next to Dictate. Choose Transcribe (Transcriptie). Again, first set the language. Then you can upload a sound file. Word will automatically make a transcription of the content and will also indicate whether there are several speakers. You can set the name of each speaker yourself.
NOTE: with the UU license you can transcribe a maximum of 300 minutes (=5 hours) of speech per month.

Other transcription tools

There are other tools for automatic transcription, but Utrecht University does not have licenses. The use of NVivo Transcription is not allowed within the license of Utrecht University.

Transcription tips

Follow these tips for creating audio files that are suitable for transcription:

  • make sure you record in a controlled environment (a closed or a quiet room)
  • try to prevent background noise (children, traffic noise, barking dogs)
  • if you are recording outside, use special 'deadcats' which prevent the microphone from registering wind noise
  • make sure every speaker uses a seperate microphone
  • ask the speakers to speak clearly into the microphone
  • ask the speakers to let others finish their sentence to avoid talking simultaneaously; don't talk over each other
  • stick to one language, avoid using words in a different language, such as jargon

Van Dale Dictionaries

Students and employees of Utrecht University have access to a full set of words and functionalities on Van Dale Online. You can find dictionaries in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese and Swedish, in addition to a Dutch dictionary. Van Dale offers their dictionaries for free to every visitor on VanDale.nl, but when you log in, you have access to many more words and functionalities.

Go to the website vandale.nl to search in the dictionaries. (Or go touu.vandale.nl when you're on campus. Go to vandale.nl when you're off campus, click ‘Inloggen’ - 'Log hier in via SurfConext' - Log in with your Solis-id.)

You need an internet connection to use the dictionaries. If you plan to be offline for a period of time, and you need dictionaries, the advice is to simply buy books.

WORK & MOVE to prevent CANS (and more)

Do you spend a lot of time behind your laptop or PC? Check out if WORK & MOVE is something for you. With this software, short breaks in your work provide mental and physical moments of exercise. This way you stay focused and energetic! We recommend that you install WORK & MOVE if you regularly work at a computer for more than two hours. WORK & MOVE is a Windows application. Follow these steps to install this application:

  1. Download WORK & MOVE from WorkAndMove.com (or go to this website and choose "Software installation (Click Once)"), and install it by double clicking the downloaded file and following the steps in the installation wizard. Make sure you have an active internet connection during installation.
  2. Go to this website, log in with your Solis ID and password and download the license file License.json from the WORK and MOVE folder.
  3. Start WORK & MOVE, click Help - Show license page (toon licentiepagina) - Import license file (importeer het licentiebestand). Choose the json file there.

Like to know more about IT?

See all IT facilities or contactus for help.

Software for students and education (2024)

FAQs

What is the best software for students? ›

Office and Productivity Tools
  • Google Drive: Docs, Slides, and Spreadsheet. Google Drive is one of the top free web-based software solutions out there. ...
  • Microsoft Office Online. ...
  • LibreOffice. ...
  • WPS Office. ...
  • Theonlineconverter.com. ...
  • Zotero. ...
  • EndNote Basic. ...
  • Mendeley.

What kind of software do schools use? ›

1. Canvas: The LMS for Easy Learning and Productivity. Instructure, the tech company behind the cloud-hosted educational advancement Canvas, developed it especially as a K-5 to higher education software. Within years, Canvas has become one of the best LMS for schools.

What is a software that is used by teachers and students to support and enhance teaching and learning activities called? ›

Educational software is a term used for any computer software that is made for an educational purpose. It encompasses different ranges from language learning software to classroom management software to reference software.

What software do most universities use? ›

Best Higher Education Software include:

Cengage MindTap, SAP for Higher Education and Research, TargetX, from Liaison, Rosetta Stone Language Learning Software, Interfolio Dossier, CampusLogic, Unifyed Student Information System, Diamond Mind, EverTrue Engage and RedShelf.

Which education system is best for students? ›

  • United States of America. The United States has the best education system in the world. ...
  • United Kingdom. The United Kingdom is known for its outstanding education system, attracting many international students annually. ...
  • Germany. ...
  • Canada. ...
  • France. ...
  • Japan. ...
  • Switzerland. ...
  • Australia.
May 7, 2024

What app should a student have? ›

Evernote App

The app helps you to collect and capture ideas in the form of notes, memos, checklists, notebooks, and to-do lists. Students can create notebooks in a wide range of formats such as photos, text, sketches, audio, PDFs, video, and many more.

Which computer is mostly used in school? ›

Laptop PCs and Chromebooks are a popular choice for upper elementary, middle, and high school students, as well as teachers. This mobile form factor offers users the ability to learn and teach from anywhere combined with the robust processing power they need for hands-on experiences and advanced tools.

Do schools use Microsoft Office? ›

Students and educators at eligible institutions can use a valid school email address to sign up for Office 365 Education for free, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote, and Microsoft Teams.

Is Google Classroom a software? ›

Google Classroom is a cloud-based learning management system that is a part of Google Apps for Education. It is suitable for academic institutions only. Google Classroom enable students to access the platform from computers, tablets and smartphones.

What is the best educational tool? ›

Here are some great digital tools to teach your students effectively:
  • Prezi.
  • Microsoft Sway.
  • Powtoon.
  • Quizlet.
  • Plickers.
  • Quizalize.
  • Nearpod.
  • TeachThought.
May 31, 2024

What is interactive educational software? ›

Interactivity. Educational software presents content in a dynamic way, rather than simply displaying static information. This sparks interest and demands greater interaction from students, allowing them to actively participate in their own learning through various tasks, challenges and exercises.

What are the five instructional software? ›

When it comes to software used in the classroom, there are five basic types. They are as follows: Drill and Practice, Tutorial, Simulation, Instructional Game, and Problem Solving. Now I will break down each type of software for better understanding.

What software program is best for a college student? ›

Table of Contents
  • Organizational Tools. Google Drive. Microsoft Office 365. ...
  • Writing Tools. Google Docs. Microsoft Word. ...
  • Software Tools for Image Editing. GNU Image Manipulation Program. Canva. ...
  • Audio Editing Tools. Ocenaudio. Audacity. ...
  • Maestra's Automatic Transcription Service. Automatic Video Transcriptions with Maestra.
Oct 19, 2023

What platforms do college students use the most? ›

Certain sites or apps, particularly Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok, have an especially strong following among young adults. The majority of 18- to 29-year-olds use Instagram and/or Snapchat, while roughly half use TikTok.

What is the most commonly used software? ›

The most common examples of applications used by millions daily are listed below.
  • A suite of Microsoft products such as MS Office, PowerPoint, MS Word, Excel, and Outlook.
  • Internet browsers like Google Chrome, Safari, Firefox, etc.
  • Graphics and design software such as Adobe Photoshop, CorelDraw, and AutoCAD.

Which is the best platform for students? ›

Udemy. Udemy is a popular e-learning platform, and for good reason. The site supports a range of learning materials for professional contexts and offers an easy educational set-up, perfect for beginners. You can use Udemy to tailor your teaching style and simplify even the most complex educational topics.

What is the best technology used for students? ›

Top 10 Technologies For The Classroom
  • E-Books.
  • Smartboards. ...
  • Tablets. ...
  • Ozobot Robots. ...
  • 3D Printing. ...
  • Game Learning. ...
  • Digital Pads. Digital pads are plug-in or wireless devices that allow students and artists to create digital drawing and work. ...
  • Virtual Reality. Virtual reality can be used within all parts of education. ...
Nov 5, 2021

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